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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	July 7, 2020 06:29 PM
From:	Senator Sharif Street
To:	All Senate members
Subject:	Standardizing Pedalcycles with Electric Assist

In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation to update the Vehicle Code in regards to pedalcycles with electric assist (e-bikes) to reflect industry standards being adopted across the country. Additionally, this legislation will clarify where e-bikes may be operated. This bill is a companion to House Bill 2646. Currently, the Vehicle Code has a very specific definition of e-bike that does not allow for the various classes of e-bikes currently being manufactured. This legislation defines in statute the following classes: Class 1: the electric motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 20mph. Class 2: the electric motor can propel the e-bike regardless if the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 20mph. Class 3: the electric motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 28mph. The legislation would also allow all classes of e-bikes to be operated on roadways, and provide the following with respect to paths: Class 1 and 2 may be used on any path that a bicycle is permitted, unless prohibited by local ordinance. Class 3 may be operated on paths adjacent to a highway or on paths permitted by a local ordinance. We hope you will join me in co-sponsoring this legislation that ensures our constituents can utilize these emerging modes of transportation for both recreational use and daily commuting purposes. If you have any questions, contact my Policy Director, Micah Mahjoubian at micah@pasenate.com.

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